Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a simple and sweet treat that combines soft, tender apples with sticky caramel and a crunchy cake topping. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, thanks to the rich caramel and the gentle cinnamon-spiced apples bubbling underneath a golden, crumbly crust.
I love how easy this dessert is to throw together—no fancy mixing or fuss, just dumping ingredients right into the pan and letting the oven do the magic. It always surprises me how the cake mix on top crisps up perfectly while soaking in some of the syrupy caramel apple juices, making every bite a perfect mix of gooey and crunchy. Plus, I think it’s a great way to remind myself that simple can be so satisfying.
My favorite way to enjoy this caramel apple dump cake is with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm cake. It’s great for sharing with friends and family because it feels like a cozy, homemade dessert that brings everyone to the table. If you have extra apples, you can always add a handful more for a fruitier touch. This cake is such a good go-to for those times when you want a comforting dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for balance with their tartness and firmness. You can also use Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter, juicier option. Just avoid very soft apples that can turn mushy.
Yellow Cake Mix: This adds sweetness and a crunchy topping. If you want a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free yellow cake mix or substitute with a mix of oats and crushed nuts.
Caramel Sauce: Use a good-quality store-bought caramel or homemade sauce. For a lighter option, drizzle honey or maple syrup instead, but it won’t be quite as rich.
Butter: Melted butter is key for that crisp cake texture. You can use salted or unsalted; just reduce any added salt if salted butter is used.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add nice crunch and flavor but can be left out if you have allergies or prefer nut-free. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor.
How Do You Get That Perfect Crunchy Topping on a Dump Cake?
The secret lies in how you spread and pour the ingredients:
- Evenly spread the dry cake mix over the apple layer without mixing. This keeps distinct layers so the cake bakes properly.
- Sprinkle the nuts evenly to make sure every bite has texture.
- Pour the melted butter slowly over the entire surface, covering as much cake mix as possible. The butter melts the dry mix during baking, creating a crisp, golden crust.
- Bake uncovered so the top gets golden and crunchy, while the apples bubble underneath.
If the topping browns too fast, tent loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes to avoid burning but still get the crispiness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like this size because it holds everything evenly and makes serving easy.
- Mixing bowls – for tossing apples and preparing the topping, these keep things tidy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the sugar, spices, and caramel just right.
- Rubber spatula or large spoon – helps spread ingredients smoothly in the dish.
- Oven – of course! Make sure it’s preheated to 350°F before baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try different fruits like pears, peaches, or cherries for a fruitier twist.
- Swap pecans or walnuts for chopped almonds or hazelnuts for a different crunch.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of bourbon to the caramel sauce for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle some oatmeal or crushed cookies over the top before baking to add more texture.
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Layer:
- 4 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 4 medium apples, Granny Smith or your choice)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Topping:
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix (dry)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool a bit before serving, so the flavors set and it’s easier to slice. You can serve it warm, which is just perfect with vanilla ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish and Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or spray a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and granulated sugar until the apples are evenly coated. Spread this apple mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared dish.
2. Add the Cake Mix and Nuts
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. If you choose to use nuts, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts evenly on top of the cake mix layer.
3. Pour Butter and Caramel
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the whole dish, covering as much cake mix as possible to help create that golden, crispy topping. Pour the caramel sauce over the top in a thin layer to add rich, gooey sweetness as the cake bakes.
4. Bake and Serve
Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see the apples bubbling around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly—the caramel will thicken a bit as it cools. Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce for a truly delicious treat.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Dump Cake?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid extra moisture that can make the cake soggy. Pat them dry with paper towels if needed.
Can I Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can assemble it a few hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving—adding a little caramel drizzle freshens it up nicely.
Can I Substitute the Yellow Cake Mix?
You can try a spice cake mix for a different flavor or use gluten-free cake mix if needed. Just keep in mind the texture might change slightly, but it will still be delicious!